Faith Nyasuguta
Gabon took a critical step toward democratic governance on Saturday by holding a referendum on a new constitution, following the military coup in August 2023 that ended over five decades of rule by the Bongo family. The proposed constitution includes key reforms, such as a two-term limit for the presidency -”each term lasting seven years- “eliminating the role of the prime minister, and formally establishing French as the official working language.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, who led the coup and now serves as interim president, highlighted the importance of this referendum as a significant milestone in the country’s transition. “This is something that I note, and it’s positive. A huge step for the transition,” Nguema said after voting in Libreville. The referendum process was marked by posters across the capital urging support, and while initial turnout was modest, participation grew throughout the day.
The August 2023 coup came after disputed elections that granted President Ali Bongo a third term. Bongo, who had been in power since 2009, succeeded his father Omar Bongo’s 41-year presidency. Military leaders cited electoral flaws and corruption as justifications for seizing power, framing their intervention as a move to restore democratic norms.
Gabon’s referendum is part of a regional trend in West and Central Africa, where eight coups have occurred since 2020, including in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. These coups have drawn international criticism and calls for rapid transitions to civilian rule. In September 2023, the Gabonese junta promised national elections by August 2025, and Saturday’s constitutional vote is viewed as a crucial step toward fulfilling this pledge.
However, there are lingering concerns over the process’s fairness. Although transitional leaders are officially barred from running in future presidential elections, General Nguema is exempt from this restriction, raising suspicions that the new constitution might consolidate power rather than democratize it. Rukmini Sanyal of the Economist Intelligence Unit noted that while the new constitution introduces some checks on power, it ultimately strengthens the president’s authority.
Observers worry that these exceptions could lead to prolonged military control, despite the junta’s stated commitment to democratic reform. The international community, including Western powers and regional bodies, is monitoring these developments closely, balancing hopes for Gabon’s democratic evolution against the risk of power entrenchment.
Whether this referendum leads to genuine democratic progress or further centralization of power will be pivotal for Gabon and may set a precedent for governance across the region.
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